Excellence Rising: Academic & Athletic Development

God’s gift of helping others has been one of the most meaningful gifts of my life.

I thank God for the smiles and growth of every youth and adult who has been part of Excellence Rising, from the 7-year-olds learning discipline and confidence, to the 55 and 60-year-olds I coach privately, to the academic lessons taught and the poetry circles I’ve had the honor to support. It has been a blessing to serve across generations.

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There have been seasons I’ve coached four full days a week and seasons where a health setback reduced me to once or twice. And still, the impact continues. I’m deeply grateful for the people who truly see the effort, the preparation, and the heart behind the work, even when it’s harder than it looks. I’m also learning to release the disappointment when everyone doesn’t.

Living with short bowel syndrome means there are days my stomach aches quietly while I’m coaching. There are moments I’m navigating discomfort most people cannot see. I don’t share that for sympathy, only for truth.

And here is the beautiful part.

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When a student smiles.
When discipline clicks.
When confidence rises.

For a little while, the joy outweighs the pain. Then I go home and rest.

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Over the last few years, I’ve learned that purpose requires discernment. Serving does not mean draining yourself in spaces that do not honor your capacity. I can give wholeheartedly and still protect my health, my peace, and the calling God entrusted to me.

Excellence Rising was born from adversity, but it is sustained by gratitude.

Still growing. Still refining. Still grateful.